My dear brothers and sisters:

The Word of God this Sunday reminds us that the Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation. Jesus invites us to care for one another and to walk together as a true community of faith.

When a brother or sister makes a mistake or strays from the right path, our response should not be judgment or rejection, but fraternal correction, offered with love, respect, and a sincere desire to help. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us that correcting our brother or sister is also an expression of charity.

It is not about pointing out someone’s faults in order to make them feel bad, but about approaching them with humility and helping them recognize what they can improve. This task requires patience, wisdom, and, above all, a heart willing to forgive and always seek reconciliation.

Saint Paul reminds us that the whole law is fulfilled in love: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” As a parish community, we are called to live out this commandment in our families, groups, and ministries, making sure that our words and actions build unity.

Wherever there is division, we are called to bring reconciliation; where there is indifference, closeness; and where there is pain, comfort. Let us ask the Lord to give us humble hearts, so that we may know how to offer correction and also accept correction when it is needed. May our parish always be a place where every person feels welcomed, heard, and accompanied.

And may we, united in prayer, learn to live the words Jesus promises us: “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” May the Lord help us to be a community that bears witness to His love, not only with our words, but above all through our lives.

God bless you all

Rev. Julio Fernández